Dr. Joseph B. Brogdon, DDS
Chattanooga, TN

KCP

There is a new dental instrument out called the KCP. Is it really a "painless" replacement for the drill?   The term "painless" is probably an overstatement.  However, the KCP Kinetic Cavity Preparation system can often be used without anesthesia.  And though it doesn't replace the drill completely, it does provide an alternative way to prepare many teeth for feelings.  it is especially beneficial in the treatment of children and in the care of patients whose medical conditions restrict the use of anesthesia.

How does it work?
Minute particles, almost too small to be seen with the naked eye, are carried to the tooth by a stream of air, gently and precisely spraying away decay.  Think of it as a microscopically-precise miniature sandblaster.  There is little or no vibration and no whining sound.

Is it safe?
Absolutely, The particles used are alpha alumina, a pure biocompatible food grade substance long used in medicine and food.  Only a tiny amount is actually used in each procedure and most of it is immediately removed by an evacuation system.   Laboratory test show that patients would have to undergo about 28 typical 20 - 30 second KCP procedures in order to inhale enough alpha alumina to equal the weight of one grain of table salt.

Is every patient treated with KCP?
No.  The drill is still needed to prepare teeth for crowns, remove silver-colored  fillings and perform a number of other important procedures.   And the KCP system is used to treat soft tissue such as the gums.  When the procedure does call for KCP, it may be used in combination with other instruments such as the drill of dental laser.